Kathleen Lynch
Question:43 Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the plans, if any, he has to encourage the further development of the nursery stock sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13788/96]
Written Answers. - Nursery Stock Sector.
Nursery stock production has increased substantially over the past ten years to meet growing home demand and export opportunities. The sector is demand led and any assistance must have regard to the need to maintain market balance in the interests not only of new investors but also of those already engaged in the sector.
Investments in the sector qualify for assistance under the Farm Improvement Programme and also under both the scheme of grant aid for investment in commercial horticulture and the producer group scheme, which from part of the Operational Programme for Agriculture Rural Development and Forestry 1994-99.
The promotion of nursery stock is done by An Bord Glas and An Bord Tráchtála and Teagasc provides appropriate research and advisory services. I have no plans to provide further assistance to the sector.